Abstract
The conceptual framework governing the development of a positive youth development program in Hong Kong is outlined. Scientific literature on the positive youth development approach, including the argument for paradigm shift from psychopathology to positive youth development, ecological assets, thriving, spirituality, engagement, connectedness, and positive youth development constructs commonly used in youth programs, is reviewed. Based on positive youth development constructs derived from the successful programs, 15 constructs were adopted in the Project P.A.T.H.S. These included bonding, resilience, cognitive competence, social competence, emotional competence, behavioral competence, moral competence, self-determination, self-efficacy, clear and positive identity, spirituality, beliefs in the future, prosocial norms, prosocial involvement, and recognition for positive behavior.
The preparation for this chapter and the Project P.A.T.H.S. were financially supported by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Address all correspondence to Daniel T.L. Shek, Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hunghom, Hong Kong (e-mail address: daniel.shek@polyu.edu.hk).
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Shek, D.T.L., Wu, F.K.Y. (2013). Conceptual Framework Underlying the Development of a Positive Youth Development Program in Hong Kong. In: SHEK, D., Sun, R. (eds) Development and Evaluation of Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programs (P.A.T.H.S.). Quality of Life in Asia, vol 3. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-4451-54-3_2
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